Art History Programs in Baltimore, Maryland

Pursuing an Art History Degree in Baltimore, Maryland

An Art History Degree is a comprehensive academic program that delves into the study of visual art, cultural traditions, and the evolution of artistic movements. These programs can be pursued through diverse educational paths, including Bachelor of Arts, Master of Arts, and Doctor of Philosophy degrees. Whether your goal is to work as a museum curator, art historian, or gallery manager, understanding the scope of available courses and degree requirements is essential for navigating a rewarding creative career.

About Baltimore, Maryland

Baltimore, Maryland is a historic port city celebrated for its rich cultural heritage, dynamic arts scene, and numerous cultural institutions. Known for landmarks such as the Baltimore Museum of Art and the Walters Art Museum, this city offers an immersive environment for students pursuing an Art History Degree. For more information on the city’s governance and resources, visit the official Baltimore website.

Art History Programs in Baltimore, Maryland

Local and nearby institutions offer a variety of Art History programs and courses that cater to both undergraduate and graduate students. Below are three notable schools:

  • Maryland Institute College of Art (MICA)

    • Program Focus: MICA offers robust art history courses integrated with fine arts studies that emphasize both theory and practice.
    • Address: 111 W Pratt St, Baltimore, MD 21201 (Downtown Baltimore)
    • Program Page: Visit the MICA Academics page for more details.

  • Johns Hopkins University

    • Program Focus: The BA in History of Art at Johns Hopkins University provides a strong foundation in global art traditions and includes requirements such as foreign language proficiency and study abroad opportunities.
    • Address: 3400 N Charles St, Baltimore, MD 21218 (Charles Village neighborhood)
    • Program Page: More information is available on the Johns Hopkins e-Catalogue.

  • University of Maryland (College Park)

    • Program Focus: Specializing in advanced research, the University of Maryland offers Master of Arts (MA) and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) programs with concentrations in areas such as Global Modern & Contemporary Art, Digital Art History, and African Diaspora Art. These programs also include practical experiences, such as the Museum Fellowship Program.
    • Address: College Park, MD 20742 — approximately 40 miles from Baltimore.
    • Program Page: Explore the offerings at the University of Maryland Art History Department.

Art History Career Opportunities in Baltimore, Maryland

Baltimore boasts a thriving cultural scene with major museums, galleries, and cultural institutions that provide excellent career opportunities for graduates. Prominent examples include:

  • Baltimore Museum of Art (BMA)

    • Overview: BMA is a major cultural hub featuring a diverse collection of art and hosts numerous internships, lectures, and networking events.
    • Address: 10 Art Museum Drive, Baltimore, MD 21218
    • Website: Visit the Baltimore Museum of Art for more details.

  • Walters Art Museum

    • Overview: Known for its extensive collection spanning thousands of years, the Walters Art Museum is an essential stop for art history students and professionals.
    • Address: 600 N Charles St, Baltimore, MD 21201
    • Website: For further information, go to The Walters Art Museum.

  • American Visionary Art Museum

    • Overview: This museum is dedicated to celebrating unconventional and self-taught artists, offering various programs and employment opportunities.
    • Address: 800 Key Hwy, Baltimore, MD 21230 (Federal Hill neighborhood)
    • Website: Check out the American Visionary Art Museum.

For insights into job prospects for Art Historians and related careers, consult the Bureau of Labor Statistics Job Outlook page.

Prerequisites for Art History Programs

Prospective students should be aware of common prerequisites for Art History programs:

  • Undergraduate Admissions:

    • Submission of SAT or ACT scores (requirements vary by institution).
    • A high school GPA of at least 3.0 is typically required (e.g., University of Maryland).
    • Some programs may request a portfolio or supplementary evidence of creative or analytical skills.

  • Graduate Admissions:

    • GRE scores are often required, particularly for PhD programs.
    • Submission of letters of recommendation and writing samples is common.
    • Advanced degrees may require specific coursework or research proposals.

Art History Degree Requirements in Maryland

Earning an Art History Degree in Maryland involves meeting both general academic standards and institution-specific requirements:

  • Degree Types and Programs:

    • Bachelor of Arts in Art History: Offered at institutions such as Johns Hopkins University, this program emphasizes rigorous coursework in art movements, historical contexts, and global art traditions.
    • Master of Arts (MA): Programs at the University of Maryland provide specializations in Global Modern & Contemporary Art, Digital Art History, and African Diaspora Art, with an emphasis on critical analysis and research.
    • Doctor of Philosophy (PhD): The PhD program at the University of Maryland focuses on advanced research and includes features such as the Museum Fellowship Program for practical experience.

  • Curriculum Requirements:

    • Core Courses: Include Introduction to Art History (divided into pre-1400 and 1400-present) and Historical and Conceptual Bases of Art History.
    • Specializations: Courses in African American/African Diaspora Art and Asian Art, among others, are offered to develop niche expertise.
    • Practical Experience: Many programs incorporate internships or museum fellowships to blend academic study with hands-on learning.

  • Accreditation and Regulatory Oversight:

    • Programs are accredited by organizations such as the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD). Prospective students can verify accreditation through the Maryland Higher Education Commission (MHEC), which regulates and accredits higher education programs in Maryland.

  • Admission Details and Contact Information:

  • Additional Resources and Professional Organizations:

    • College Art Association (CAA): Advocates for art history professionals and promotes academic standards. Visit CAA for conferences, job listings, and publications.
    • Local Institution Specific Information:
      • Baltimore Museum of Art (BMA): Offers internships, lectures, and networking opportunities. More information is available on their website.
      • University of Maryland Art Library: Houses a collection of over 100,000 volumes on art and archaeology, accessible to enrolled students and researchers.
    • State and City-Level Resources:
      • Maryland State Arts Council: Offers grants and additional educational resources. Visit the Maryland State Arts Council.
      • Creative Baltimore Fund: Supports various arts initiatives in Baltimore. Learn more at Creative Baltimore Fund.
      • Baltimore County Arts Guild: Provides workshops and exhibitions for local artists and art historians. More details can be found at Baltimore County Arts Guild.

Get Started Today

Embarking on a journey to earn an Art History Degree in Baltimore, Maryland opens up a world of academic and professional opportunities. With diverse programs, comprehensive curricula, and access to renowned cultural institutions, now is the time to take the next step. Prospective students are encouraged to reach out to these schools and use the contact forms available on their websites to begin the application process. Explore your passion for art history and prepare for a fulfilling career in the arts.